Some 290 kilometers from Banff, the “other” side of the Canadian Rockies is located in the heart of Jasper National Park. If you’re one of those people who can’t spend a week in a tent, you will have to find accommodations that fit your personality. I have made a list of the BEST places to stay in Jasper, the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
In Jasper Townsite, I recommend Amethyst Lodge. This hotel is decked out with services, including places for pets, great coffee makers and of course Wi-Fi. My favorite aspect is of course the cozy lounge where I can rest my weary bones after a long day of hiking through the Jasper wilds.
Next I visited Chateau Jasper, the newest member of the local Mountain Park Lodges. Offering 119 fully equipped rooms and suites, this lodge definitely has a mountain rustic feel to it. An indoor pool and Jacuzzi made me think twice about leaving to continue my search for Jasper’s best hotels and lodges.
It was time to visit the deluxe Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. I needed a bit of luxury in my life, I figured. Being a mountain man full time takes its toll. Here visitors can practice their golf swings on an 18-hole course and spend downtime in the saltwater pool, spa, and steam room. Like the rest of the hotels, there is a gourmet restaurant and the whole package is presented in a charming country décor. Still, it might be too rich for my blood.
Just 8 kilometers from Patricia and Pyramid Lakes, the Marmot Lodge is a great option for travelers. Embers Steakhouse and the fireside lounge will make you feel like you are on vacation. Here I had a conversation with a couple from back east. They asked me if the Canadian Rockies were open all year round. I said for a mountain man, there is no closing time.
Right next to Jasper National park and a short walk from the Tramway, the rustic Lobstick Lodge is a fine option. With the Canadian flag flying high over the roof, this a true piece of Canadian Rockies culture. The hotel boasts nice panoramic views and great food. For the price, it’s a jewel.
The town of Jasper has a population of some 4,000 people, but in high season this can increase considerably due to its popularity. Come early or come late, the mountain man guarantees you will find a piece of the Rockies.
